Bell Textron Inc. has confirmed that the SUBARU Bell 412EPX has commenced its first-ever demonstration tour in the Middle East, following its appearance at Dubai Airshow 2025. The tour marks a milestone for the platform as it takes flight across the region in a firefighting configuration.

 

The demonstration programme will include stops at rotorcraft facilities in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar. Bell expects the tour to attract hundreds of prospective customers from the public safety and defence sectors, providing an opportunity to view the vertical lift capabilities of the multi-mission helicopter first-hand.

 

Tim Evans, Managing Director of Middle East and Africa at Bell, said the company was pleased to extend the aircraft’s regional presence beyond the airshow environment. He noted that Bell continues to engage positively with both current and prospective operators on how the 412EPX can enhance mission performance.

 

With eleven variants developed over more than four decades, the Bell 412 platform has a long-established record supporting critical missions worldwide, including firefighting, law enforcement and search-and-rescue operations. The SUBARU Bell 412EPX builds on this legacy with increased performance, offering a maximum internal weight of 12,200 lb, an external weight of 13,000 lb, and the ability to carry 5,000 lb using a cargo hook. Its robust main rotor gearbox with dry run capability and increased horsepower are designed to support demanding public safety operations.

 

Evans added that the 412EPX represents a modern and efficient multi-mission solution, reinforcing the Bell 412’s reputation as a reliable workhorse for operators across the region.

 

In June 2025, Bell marked the signing of the first SUBARU Bell 412EPX order in Africa, with the Tunisia Air Force selecting the platform for multi-role military and security missions. This order follows recent global introductions of the Bell 412 with operators including the Japan Coast Guard, San Diego Fire and Rescue, Sarajevo Canton Ministry of Interior and the Croatia Ministry of Interior.